A quick heads up on an interesting new footwear brand that's just
launching in the UK. The brand is called Keen and they specialise in
'hybrid' shoes, in other words a range of sandal-type footwear with
performance leanings.
Straight outta the US, the brand has been going for just 23 months
and claims to be 'the fastest growing footwear brand in the world'
and already has a 35 per-cent market share in technical sports
sandals in the States.
Not unlike another sandal-based brand beginning with 'T', okay,
Teva, Keen's shoes are more than just sandals with models designed
specifically for hiking and trail running alongside, rafting and
specifically casual shoes.
The specification looks promising too with patented toe guards to
protect against abrasion, an advanced, erm, metatomical footbed for
comfort and cushioning and Aegis Microbe Shield technology to
minimise pongs and staining. Even better, if they do get grubby, you
can just stick 'em in the washing machine, even the leather
versions...
We haven't seen them in their leathery, fabricy flesh yet, but a
quick browse through the Keen
UK web site suggests that they look pretty damn neat. You'll be
able to find them at a number of major UK retailers including Ellis
Brigham, Snow and Rock ,John Lewis, Field and Trek and the Outdoors
Group.
Now all we need is a bit of warmth and sunshine....
Full stockist details from the
Keen
UK web site or call 0800 612 9292.
Lightning
Halfway between sandals and trail shoes, the Keen Taos is what you want to be wearing if someone spills a jeraboam of bubbly over the rockery on Christmas Day ;-)
